Health system can withstand four months of war: Lebanese Health Min.

By Al Mayadeen English
Source: Agencies
9 Aug 2024 18:44

Earlier this week, the Lebanese Health Ministry received 32 tonnes of medical assistance from the World Health Organization (WHO).

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Lebanon's Caretaker Health Minister Firass Abiad. (AFP)

Lebanese Health Minister Firass Abiad informed Sputnik on Friday that in the event of an Israeli aggression, Lebanon's health system would be able to withstand the impact of war for a maximum of four months, and preparations are currently underway.

"Preparations are in full swing in the ministry to confront any large-scale war with Israel. A medical emergency headquarters has been launched. The health sector is prepared to counter [the effects of] war for four months," the minister said.

The preparation and restocking of hospitals with medical equipment and medicines are directly tied to the potential threat of an Israeli military campaign, and these efforts also aim to ensure the provision of medical services to refugees, Abiad added.

"We have 20 ambulance crews, most of which are now in southern Lebanon. We are working to increase their number. We are also recruiting teams for the Chouf region and the western Beqaa [province]," the minister noted.

Hospitals in the south of the country continue to operate and provide care, with facilities categorized as red, yellow, or green based on their proximity to the frontline, Abiad further said.

Amid the looming threat of retaliation from Iran and Hezbollah, the Health Ministry has been working to secure stockpiles of aid and personnel in anticipation of a potential war.

Several attempts have been done to push for a ceasefire. However, due to "Israel's" obtinancy, none of these attempts came to fruition, with many observers blaming Netanyahu for these failures.

Earlier this week, the Lebanese Health Ministry received 32 tonnes of medical assistance from the World Health Organization (WHO). Lebanese authorities are expecting additional shipments from WHO and friendly states in the near future.